Studying Smarts

Many students feel the need to spend every spare moment cramming for a test.  I know I had to be reminded to take breaks, but I didn't forget to include exercise and healthy foods.  Keep balance in your schedule so you don't wear yourself out and/or end up fighting a cold/illness on top of all the studying you're trying to accomplish.  Stay healthy this exam season by taking care of yourself.  I know you don't have a lot of time to spare, so I'm just going to offer a few tips to help you out!

• Don't skip breakfast, especially on exam day - food gives you energy and allows your brain to function
• Stay hydrated - include lots of water, low fat milk, and 100% fruit juice, don't just focus on caffeinated beverages
• Skip high sugar and high fat snacks/foods - your blood sugar will come crashing back down and they'll likely make you sluggish
• Stick to a normal eating pattern - take study breaks to prepare a large batch of chili or chop up some fresh veggies for the week
• Sleep - your brain needs time to recharge, so keep your caffeine intake to a minimum or you may have trouble getting the zzzzzzzzzzs you need
• Include a variety of bright and colourful fruits and vegetables to get the nutrients you need
• Keep your fibre intake up with vegetables, fruit, and whole grains and include sources of lean protein - these will help stabilize your blood sugar and keep you going longer
• Include exercise to clear your mind and allow you to focus when you come back to your books

Best of luck!
Steph Wheler, RD
something nutrishus counselling & coaching
www.nutrishus.com